US10888054B2 - Vertical hydroponic tower array fixture system - Google Patents

Vertical hydroponic tower array fixture system Download PDF

Info

Publication number
US10888054B2
US10888054B2 US15/522,069 US201515522069A US10888054B2 US 10888054 B2 US10888054 B2 US 10888054B2 US 201515522069 A US201515522069 A US 201515522069A US 10888054 B2 US10888054 B2 US 10888054B2
Authority
US
United States
Prior art keywords
hydroponic
lower bracket
hollow
tower
towers
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Active, expires
Application number
US15/522,069
Other languages
English (en)
Other versions
US20170332568A1 (en
Inventor
Nathaniel R. Storey
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
University of Wyoming
Original Assignee
University of Wyoming
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by University of Wyoming filed Critical University of Wyoming
Priority to US15/522,069 priority Critical patent/US10888054B2/en
Assigned to UNIVERSITY OF WYOMING reassignment UNIVERSITY OF WYOMING ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: STOREY, NATHANIEL R.
Publication of US20170332568A1 publication Critical patent/US20170332568A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of US10888054B2 publication Critical patent/US10888054B2/en
Active legal-status Critical Current
Adjusted expiration legal-status Critical

Links

Images

Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
    • A01G—HORTICULTURE; CULTIVATION OF VEGETABLES, FLOWERS, RICE, FRUIT, VINES, HOPS OR SEAWEED; FORESTRY; WATERING
    • A01G31/00—Soilless cultivation, e.g. hydroponics
    • A01G31/02—Special apparatus therefor
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
    • A01G—HORTICULTURE; CULTIVATION OF VEGETABLES, FLOWERS, RICE, FRUIT, VINES, HOPS OR SEAWEED; FORESTRY; WATERING
    • A01G18/00—Cultivation of mushrooms
    • A01G18/60—Cultivation rooms; Equipment therefor
    • A01G18/64—Cultivation containers; Lids therefor
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
    • A01G—HORTICULTURE; CULTIVATION OF VEGETABLES, FLOWERS, RICE, FRUIT, VINES, HOPS OR SEAWEED; FORESTRY; WATERING
    • A01G18/00—Cultivation of mushrooms
    • A01G18/60—Cultivation rooms; Equipment therefor
    • A01G18/64—Cultivation containers; Lids therefor
    • A01G18/66—Cultivation bags
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
    • A01G—HORTICULTURE; CULTIVATION OF VEGETABLES, FLOWERS, RICE, FRUIT, VINES, HOPS OR SEAWEED; FORESTRY; WATERING
    • A01G18/00—Cultivation of mushrooms
    • A01G18/60—Cultivation rooms; Equipment therefor
    • A01G18/69—Arrangements for managing the environment, e.g. sprinklers
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
    • A01G—HORTICULTURE; CULTIVATION OF VEGETABLES, FLOWERS, RICE, FRUIT, VINES, HOPS OR SEAWEED; FORESTRY; WATERING
    • A01G24/00—Growth substrates; Culture media; Apparatus or methods therefor
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
    • A01G—HORTICULTURE; CULTIVATION OF VEGETABLES, FLOWERS, RICE, FRUIT, VINES, HOPS OR SEAWEED; FORESTRY; WATERING
    • A01G24/00—Growth substrates; Culture media; Apparatus or methods therefor
    • A01G24/10—Growth substrates; Culture media; Apparatus or methods therefor based on or containing inorganic material
    • A01G24/12—Growth substrates; Culture media; Apparatus or methods therefor based on or containing inorganic material containing soil minerals
    • A01G24/15—Calcined rock, e.g. perlite, vermiculite or clay aggregates
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
    • A01G—HORTICULTURE; CULTIVATION OF VEGETABLES, FLOWERS, RICE, FRUIT, VINES, HOPS OR SEAWEED; FORESTRY; WATERING
    • A01G24/00—Growth substrates; Culture media; Apparatus or methods therefor
    • A01G24/10—Growth substrates; Culture media; Apparatus or methods therefor based on or containing inorganic material
    • A01G24/18—Growth substrates; Culture media; Apparatus or methods therefor based on or containing inorganic material containing inorganic fibres, e.g. mineral wool
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
    • A01G—HORTICULTURE; CULTIVATION OF VEGETABLES, FLOWERS, RICE, FRUIT, VINES, HOPS OR SEAWEED; FORESTRY; WATERING
    • A01G24/00—Growth substrates; Culture media; Apparatus or methods therefor
    • A01G24/20—Growth substrates; Culture media; Apparatus or methods therefor based on or containing natural organic material
    • A01G24/22—Growth substrates; Culture media; Apparatus or methods therefor based on or containing natural organic material containing plant material
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
    • A01G—HORTICULTURE; CULTIVATION OF VEGETABLES, FLOWERS, RICE, FRUIT, VINES, HOPS OR SEAWEED; FORESTRY; WATERING
    • A01G24/00—Growth substrates; Culture media; Apparatus or methods therefor
    • A01G24/30—Growth substrates; Culture media; Apparatus or methods therefor based on or containing synthetic organic compounds
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
    • A01G—HORTICULTURE; CULTIVATION OF VEGETABLES, FLOWERS, RICE, FRUIT, VINES, HOPS OR SEAWEED; FORESTRY; WATERING
    • A01G24/00—Growth substrates; Culture media; Apparatus or methods therefor
    • A01G24/40—Growth substrates; Culture media; Apparatus or methods therefor characterised by their structure
    • A01G24/42—Growth substrates; Culture media; Apparatus or methods therefor characterised by their structure of granular or aggregated structure
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
    • A01G—HORTICULTURE; CULTIVATION OF VEGETABLES, FLOWERS, RICE, FRUIT, VINES, HOPS OR SEAWEED; FORESTRY; WATERING
    • A01G24/00—Growth substrates; Culture media; Apparatus or methods therefor
    • A01G24/40—Growth substrates; Culture media; Apparatus or methods therefor characterised by their structure
    • A01G24/48—Growth substrates; Culture media; Apparatus or methods therefor characterised by their structure containing foam or presenting a foam structure
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
    • A01G—HORTICULTURE; CULTIVATION OF VEGETABLES, FLOWERS, RICE, FRUIT, VINES, HOPS OR SEAWEED; FORESTRY; WATERING
    • A01G25/00—Watering gardens, fields, sports grounds or the like
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
    • A01G—HORTICULTURE; CULTIVATION OF VEGETABLES, FLOWERS, RICE, FRUIT, VINES, HOPS OR SEAWEED; FORESTRY; WATERING
    • A01G27/00—Self-acting watering devices, e.g. for flower-pots
    • A01G27/04—Self-acting watering devices, e.g. for flower-pots using wicks or the like
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
    • A01G—HORTICULTURE; CULTIVATION OF VEGETABLES, FLOWERS, RICE, FRUIT, VINES, HOPS OR SEAWEED; FORESTRY; WATERING
    • A01G9/00—Cultivation in receptacles, forcing-frames or greenhouses; Edging for beds, lawn or the like
    • A01G9/04—Flower-pot saucers
    • A01G9/047—Channels or gutters, e.g. for hydroponics
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
    • A01G—HORTICULTURE; CULTIVATION OF VEGETABLES, FLOWERS, RICE, FRUIT, VINES, HOPS OR SEAWEED; FORESTRY; WATERING
    • A01G18/00—Cultivation of mushrooms
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
    • A01G—HORTICULTURE; CULTIVATION OF VEGETABLES, FLOWERS, RICE, FRUIT, VINES, HOPS OR SEAWEED; FORESTRY; WATERING
    • A01G25/00—Watering gardens, fields, sports grounds or the like
    • A01G25/02—Watering arrangements located above the soil which make use of perforated pipe-lines or pipe-lines with dispensing fittings, e.g. for drip irrigation
    • A01G25/023—Dispensing fittings for drip irrigation, e.g. drippers
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
    • Y02P—CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES IN THE PRODUCTION OR PROCESSING OF GOODS
    • Y02P60/00—Technologies relating to agriculture, livestock or agroalimentary industries
    • Y02P60/20—Reduction of greenhouse gas [GHG] emissions in agriculture, e.g. CO2
    • Y02P60/21—Dinitrogen oxide [N2O], e.g. using aquaponics, hydroponics or efficiency measures

Definitions

  • An embodiment of the present disclosure comprises a hydroponic tower array fixture system comprising: two or more hollow hydroponic towers, wherein each hollow hydroponic towers has a front, an open first end, and an open second end; a slot formed in the front of each hydroponic tower, the slot having a width equal to only a portion of a width of the front of the hydronic tower; and a media material insertable into each hollow hydroponic tower; an upper bracket, wherein at least two upper bracket openings are formed in the bottom surface of the upper bracket substantially corresponding to shape and width of the two or more hydroponic towers; and a lower bracket, wherein at least two lower bracket openings are formed in the bottom surface of the lower bracket substantially corresponding to shape and width of the two or more hydroponic towers; wherein the first end of at least one of the two or more hollow hydroponic towers is inserted into one of the at least two upper bracket openings of the upper bracket; and wherein the second end of the hollow hydroponic tower is inserted into one of the at least two
  • Another embodiment may comprise a method for producing organisms on a hydroponic tower array fixture system, the method comprising: providing two or more hollow hydroponic towers, wherein said two or more hollow hydroponic towers have a front surface, an open first end, and an open second end; providing a slot formed in the front surface of each hydroponic tower; providing a media material; inserting said media material into each hollow hydroponic tower; providing an upper bracket, wherein at least two upper bracket openings are formed in the bottom surface of the upper bracket substantially corresponding to shape and width of the two or more hydroponic towers; and providing a lower bracket, wherein at least two lower bracket openings are formed in the bottom surface of the lower bracket substantially corresponding to shape and width of the two or more hydroponic towers; inserting the first end of at least one of the two or more hollow hydroponic towers into one of the at least two upper bracket openings of the upper bracket; and inserting the second end of the hollow hydroponic tower into one of the at least two lower bracket openings of the lower bracket; insert
  • FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating an example of the front of a hydroponic tower array fixture system.
  • FIG. 2 is a close-up view illustrating an example of a hydroponic tower of the modular hydroponic tower array fixture system.
  • FIG. 3 a is a perspective view illustrating an example of the lower bracket of the modular hydroponic tower array fixture system.
  • FIG. 3 b is a perspective view illustrating an example of the cross piece isolated from lower bracket of the modular hydroponic tower array fixture system.
  • FIG. 4 is a perspective view illustrating an example of the upper bracket of the modular hydroponic tower array fixture system.
  • FIG. 5 is a close-up view illustrating an example of the upper bracket in association with a means of irrigation.
  • FIG. 6 is a close-up view illustrating an example of the lower bracket in association with a reservoir.
  • FIG. 7 is a perspective view illustrating an example of the modular hydroponic tower array fixture system coupled to a walled structure.
  • FIG. 8 provides a flow diagram for producing organisms on a modular hydroponic tower array fixture system.
  • Embodiments of the present disclosure include various apparatus, systems and methods for the germination, growth and/or harvesting of organisms, including but not limited to, various forms of plants (including but not limited to pteridophytes, gymnosperms and angiosperms, such as annual and perennial ornamental plants, vegetables, including leafy greens, brassicas, tomatoes) and fungi (including but not limited to basidiomycetes and ascomycetes) in hydroponic towers modularly coupled in an array to allow for individual hydroponic towers to be removed from the array as necessary.
  • the apparatus and system allows for an array of two or more hydroponic towers to be attached to vertical surfaces, including, but not limited to, internal and external walls of structures such as houses, offices, warehouses and outbuildings.
  • the system described herein allows for hydroponic towers to be placed in the array and easily removed by the user, making this a user friendly means of organizing and attaching towers to structures while simultaneously irrigating and collecting effluent from the towers using integrated irrigation and collection systems.
  • FIG. 1 provides a front perspective view of an example modular hydroponic tower array system of the present disclosure 100 .
  • the modular hydroponic tower array system comprises two or more hydroponic towers 102 , at least one upper bracket 104 ; at least one lower bracket 106 ; a reservoir 108 and a means of irrigation 110 to transport water and nutrients from the reservoir 108 to the top of the two of more hydroponic towers 102 .
  • each hydroponic tower 102 is a hollow, elongated structure with a slot 112 formed lengthwise from the first end 114 of the hydroponic tower 102 to the second end 116 the hydroponic tower 102 along the front of the tower 102 .
  • Each tower 102 may be constructed of metal such as steel or aluminum, or other materials such as but not limited wood, synthetic polymers such as nylon, plastics, such as high density polyethylene ‘HDPE’ or concrete.
  • FIG. 1 eight (8) hydroponic towers 102 are illustrated but any number of two or more hydroponic towers 102 can be used in the system. Therefore, while this descriptive example has eight hydroponic towers 102 , it should be understood that this description is applicable to any such system with other numbers of hydroponic towers, as will be understood by one skilled in the art, once they understand the principles of this system.
  • an embodiment of the modular hydroponic tower array 100 consists of an upper bracket 104 and lower bracket 106 .
  • the upper bracket 104 is a hollow, elongated structure and comprises openings (not shown in FIG. 1 ) cut along lower surface of the upper bracket 104 , cut slightly larger than the cross sectional dimensions and shape of the corresponding hydroponic tower 102 , allowing the upper bracket 104 to slip over the top of the hydroponic tower 102 .
  • the lower bracket 106 also is a hollow, elongated structure and comprises openings, cut along upper surface of the lower bracket 106 , oppositely disposed to the openings of the upper bracket 104 when the two brackets are aligned.
  • each end of the lower bracket 106 may be fitted with a cap 118 , where a drain fitting (not shown in FIG. 1 ) is operably coupled to the cap 118 to allow excess effluent, such as water and/or nutrients, to drain away from the lower bracket 106 .
  • the lower bracket 106 functions as a gutter system when a drain fitting is installed, allowing effluent such as water and nutrient solutions to be collected and drained away.
  • a reservoir 108 is provided to capture and store excess water or nutrients that runs through the hydroponic towers 102 and through the lower bracket 106 .
  • a means of irrigation 110 such as a pump operably coupled to a pipe, hose or other conduit which is capable of delivering water and nutrient solutions (such as but not limited to solutions containing nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, iron, magnesium and zinc), is also shown in FIG. 1
  • the means of irrigation 110 allows water and/or nutrient solutions to be transported from the reservoir 108 to the first end 114 of the hydroponic towers 102 , by running the means of irrigation 110 , such as a pipe along the top of the hydroponic towers 102 .
  • the water or nutrient solution may be emitted from the means of irrigation 110 to the first end of the hydroponic towers 102 by a variety of emitters, including but not limited to drip emitters, sprinklers and micro-spray emitters.
  • a pump moves water and/or nutrient solutions through the means of irrigation 110 from the reservoir 108 to the top or first end of the hydroponic towers 102 , distributing a nutrient solution into media material (not shown in FIG. 1 ) inserted in the grow chamber.
  • the water and/or nutrient solution is allowed to drip down through the media and the roots of the plants or fungi growing in the media.
  • Some of the nutrient solution trickles down the walls of the hydroponic towers 102 and is captured by roots or hyphae in contact with the walls of the towers 102 . Excess nutrient solution drains to the bottom of the hollow grow chamber of the tower 102 where it is drained into the lower bracket 106 and subsequently drains into the reservoir 108 .
  • the means of irrigation 110 can be easily hidden in the upper bracket 104 by attaching irrigation lines to the top of the upper bracket 104 , with emitters allowing water to drip down onto the tops of the inserted towers 102 .
  • water or excess solution in the reservoir 108 may be pumped to a storage tank (not shown in FIG. 1 ).
  • the storage tank may hold/store the water and nutrient solutions for future use in the hydroponic tower array system 100 .
  • FIG. 2 provides a close-up view of a single hydroponic tower 102 .
  • the hydroponic tower 102 is comprised of a front, with an open top portion and an open bottom portion.
  • the hollow shape of the hydroponic tower 102 creates a grow chamber 202 in the hollow cavity of the hydroponic tower 102 where media material is inserted to provide a stable surface/platform on which an organism such as a plant or mushroom is able to establish roots or rhizomes and grow. While the shape of the elongated hydroponic towers 102 shown in FIG. 1 and FIG.
  • substantially square or rectangular as will be understood by one skilled in the art, a variety of shapes may be used to create the hydroponic shown and growth chambers described herein, including but not limited to substantially square, rectangular, round, oval, octagon, pentagon and triangular.
  • the hydroponic tower 102 has a slot 112 formed lengthwise along the front of the tower 102 .
  • the slot 112 also allows for the easy insertion of organisms such as plants and fungi into the media along the length of the structure and to grow out of media that is inserted into the growth chamber 202 .
  • the media material of the present disclosure maybe be a single piece of media composed of a variety of materials including plastic, such a polyester matrix material cut to a diameter that allows for easy insertion of the material into the grow chamber 202 of each hydroponic tower 102 .
  • the media material may be coated in a silicone binder.
  • the single piece of media material may be cut into strips the width of the diameter of the grow chamber 202 .
  • the individual strips of media material may then be folded and pulled into this grow chamber 202 at the top of the grow chamber 202 of each hydroponic tower 102 , with seedlings or fungi sandwiched in the fold between the two halves of the media material and corresponding to the location of the slot 112 running the length of the face of the hydroponic towers 102 .
  • As the media is pulled into the grow chamber 202 more seedlings are added, and as the media enters the grow chamber 202 , the shoots of the seedlings extend out horizontally and travel down this slot 112 .
  • Multiple media inserts may be added to the grow chamber 202 , until the media encompasses the entire length of the grow chamber 202 .
  • media material may be used with the system of the present disclosure.
  • media may include but is not limited to, a fibrous, non-woven matrix media material, granular materials, Styrofoam, polyurethane foam, plastic mesh, rock wool, coconut fiber, vermiculite, as well as organic soil such as potting soil.
  • the media material of the present disclosure may be altered in several ways to serve a diverse range of functions.
  • the media may be cut at a taper from the unfastened or unfolded end to the fastened or folded end, reserving a tapered space at the rear of the insert to allow compost, alternate plant media, fertilizing substance or some type of soil amendment or additive to be held in the space between the tapered media insert and the rear and sidewalls of the grow chamber 202 .
  • This alteration allows compost based hydroponic growth using regular irrigation water, with plant or fungal nutrients supplied by the compost or other additive.
  • Tops, sides, and corners of the media material can also be cut, rounded, or cut at an angle to reduce biosolids accumulation, algal growth, or to enhance water distribution through the media, depending on application.
  • Multiple inserts can also be used in the grow chambers 202 allowing multiple age groups of plants and fungi to incorporate into each grow chamber 202 .
  • Worms are also commonly integrated into the grow chambers and the media is designed to have the correct mesh size to accommodate their movement through the media, although media with a smaller or larger mesh size may be used depending on application.
  • Plants, seedlings or fungal tissue are placed between the two halves of media in each grow chamber 202 of the system, with the upper portions of the plant or organism protruding through the slot 112 of each hydroponic tower 102 .
  • the media material is folded in half, a pulling hook with a flat hook attached to a handle allows the media inserts to be pulled into and out of the grow chamber 202 by means of the slot 112 , with the pulling hook handle extending from the slot 112 in the grow chamber 202 of each hydroponic tower 102 .
  • the hook can also be attached to a pneumatic or hydraulic device that allows automated “pulling” of the media inserts.
  • FIG. 3 a provides a perspective view of the lower bracket 106 of the hydroponic array system.
  • the lower bracket 106 is an elongated hollow structure with lower bracket openings 302 cut along the upper surface of the lower bracket 106 , of the same shape and slightly larger than the cross section dimensions of the hydroponic tower 102 where the shape may include but is not limited to, substantially square, rectangular, round, oval, octagon, pentagon and triangular.
  • inside the lower bracket 106 is placed a cross piece 304 that runs down the length of the lower bracket 106 .
  • FIG. 3 b provides a perspective view of the cross piece 304 , isolated from the lower bracket 106 .
  • the cross piece 304 typically consists of a section of pipe 306 substantially equal in length to the lower bracket 106 , inserted through support pieces, called bowties 308 that hold the pipe 306 up off of the bottom of the lower bracket 106 at a specific height, where an example elevated height may be three inches.
  • the cross piece 304 may be made of metal such as aluminum or steel as well as plastic or wood and allows each hydroponic tower 102 to rest on the pipe 306 and hold securely on the cross piece 304 , when the hydroponic tower 102 is inserted into a corresponding lower bracket opening 302 in the lower bracket 106 .
  • each hydroponic tower 102 to remain elevated above the bottom of the lower bracket 106 , allowing water and nutrients to easily drain out of each hydroponic tower 102 and into the lower bracket 106 where the water or nutrient solution is able to travel and drain into the reservoir 108 .
  • FIG. 4 provides a perspective view of the upper bracket 104 as isolated from the hydroponic tower array system.
  • the upper bracket 104 is an elongated hollow structure with upper bracket openings 402 cut along the lower surface of the upper bracket 104 , of the same shape and slightly larger than the cross section dimensions of the hydroponic tower 102 where the shape may include but is not limited to, substantially square, rectangular, round, oval, octagon, pentagon and triangular.
  • FIG. 5 provides a close-up view illustrating an example of the upper bracket 104 in association with a means of irrigation, 500 .
  • a means of irrigation 110 which is capable of transporting and delivering water and nutrient solutions, is run from the reservoir 108 to the top of the first end 114 of the hydroponic towers 102 .
  • the means of irrigation 110 may be operably coupled, such as by a hangers or clips (not shown in FIG. 5 ) to the upper bracket 104 allowing the means of irrigation 110 to remain elevated above the first end 114 of the hydroponic towers 102 . Water or nutrients are pumped through the means of irrigation 110 from the reservoir 108 to the top of the hydroponic towers 102 .
  • the water or nutrient solution may then be emitted from the means of irrigation 110 by a variety of emitters 502 , including drip emitters, sprinklers and micro-spray emitters through the upper bracket openings 402 in the bottom of the upper bracket 104 into media material inserted in the grow chamber 202 .
  • the water and nutrient solution is then allowed to drip down through the media and the roots of the plants growing in the media.
  • FIG. 6 provides a close-up view illustrating an example of the lower bracket in association with a reservoir 600 .
  • the second end 116 of each hydroponic tower 102 is placed in the lower bracket opening 302 located in the top portion of the lower bracket 106 .
  • Each hydroponic tower 102 rests on the cross piece 304 running the length of the lower bracket 106 , allowing each hydroponic tower 102 to be held securely on the cross piece 304 .
  • each hydroponic tower 102 remains elevated above the bottom of the lower bracket 106 , allowing water and nutrients to easily drain out of each hydroponic tower 102 and into the lower bracket 106 where the water or nutrient solution is able to travel and drain into the reservoir 108 .
  • FIG. 7 is a perspective view illustrating an example of the modular hydroponic tower array fixture system coupled to a walled structure, 700 .
  • the hydroponic tower array fixture system described herein may be mounted or coupled to a walled structure.
  • the lower bracket 106 is operably coupled to the wall of a structure such as an internal wall or an external wall.
  • a variety of methods are available to operably couple the lower bracket 106 to the wall, which are known in the art, including but not limited to, operably coupling each lower bracket 106 to the outer wall by bolting the lower bracket 106 to the wall.
  • the upper bracket 104 may then be operably coupled to the wall or supported against the wall using the same or similar methods that were used to operably couple the lower bracket 106 to the wall.
  • Additional methods for attaching or mounting the system to a structure may include but is not limited to, pins that snapped into place on the structure, clips, including z-clips, and architectural anchors as well as various forms of adhesives depending on the building code and the expected use.
  • Each hydroponic tower 102 is then inserted into the system by inserting the first end 114 of the first hydroponic tower 102 into the opening in the upper bracket 104 .
  • the second end 116 of the hydroponic tower 102 is then swung inward and placed in the corresponding opening in the lower bracket 106 .
  • the bottom of the hydroponic tower 102 comes to rest and is situated on the cross piece running the length of the lower bracket 106 .
  • the second end 116 of the hydroponic tower 102 is lifted vertically until the second end 116 is clear of the lower bracket 106 .
  • the second end 116 of the hydroponic tower 102 is then swung outward and lowered, allowing the first end 114 of the hydroponic tower 102 to drop out of and release from the upper bracket 104 .
  • individual hydroponic towers 102 can be quickly and easily placed in the modular hydroponic array system 100 and removed from the system 100 .
  • the system described herein may also be supported by a variety of other means without the need of coupling the system to a walled structure. These may include various types of stands and braces, which will be understood by one skilled in the art.
  • FIG. 8 provides a flow diagram for producing organisms in a hydroponic tower array fixture system 800 .
  • a single piece or strips of media material is placed or inserted into the hollow grow chamber of each hydroponic tower, where the hydroponic tower is comprised of a surface with a slot running the length of the surface, with an open first end and an open second end.
  • the open first end of the hydroponic tower is inserted into an upper bracket with openings in the bottom surface of the upper bracket substantially corresponding to the diameter and shape of each hydroponic tower.
  • the second end of each hydroponic tower is then inserted into a lower bracket, which also has openings cut into the top surface of the upper bracket substantially corresponding to the width and shape of each hydroponic tower.
  • Each hydroponic tower rests and is secured on top of a cross piece internally running the length of the lower bracket.
  • one or more plants or fungi are inserted into the media material, through the slot running the length of the front surface of each hydroponic tower.
  • the plants or fungi in the media material are then grown and may be harvested as desired. Water and nutrients may be pumped to the top of each hydroponic tower and emitted into the media material and allowed to drip down through the media where the plants may update the nutrients as needed. Any remaining nutrients may then be collected in the lower bracket and then drained into a reservoir located at the base of the hydroponic tower array fixture system, where the nutrients may then be recycled back to the plants or fungi.
  • the hydroponic tower array fixture system offers the ability for users to quickly remove a single hydroponic tower from the system as needed, such a removing mature plants for harvesting or removing dead plants while also allowing the user to quickly and easily identify, isolate and remove pests or disease from the system without damaging other plants located in other hydroponic towers
US15/522,069 2014-11-19 2015-11-11 Vertical hydroponic tower array fixture system Active 2036-08-22 US10888054B2 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US15/522,069 US10888054B2 (en) 2014-11-19 2015-11-11 Vertical hydroponic tower array fixture system

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US201462081733P 2014-11-19 2014-11-19
PCT/US2015/060085 WO2016081234A1 (en) 2014-11-19 2015-11-11 Vertical hydroponic tower array fixture system
US15/522,069 US10888054B2 (en) 2014-11-19 2015-11-11 Vertical hydroponic tower array fixture system

Related Parent Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/US2015/060085 A-371-Of-International WO2016081234A1 (en) 2014-11-19 2015-11-11 Vertical hydroponic tower array fixture system

Related Child Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US17/146,489 Continuation US20210161088A1 (en) 2014-11-19 2021-01-11 Vertical hydroponic tower array fixture system

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
US20170332568A1 US20170332568A1 (en) 2017-11-23
US10888054B2 true US10888054B2 (en) 2021-01-12

Family

ID=56014394

Family Applications (2)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US15/522,069 Active 2036-08-22 US10888054B2 (en) 2014-11-19 2015-11-11 Vertical hydroponic tower array fixture system
US17/146,489 Pending US20210161088A1 (en) 2014-11-19 2021-01-11 Vertical hydroponic tower array fixture system

Family Applications After (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US17/146,489 Pending US20210161088A1 (en) 2014-11-19 2021-01-11 Vertical hydroponic tower array fixture system

Country Status (6)

Country Link
US (2) US10888054B2 (ja)
EP (1) EP3220735B1 (ja)
JP (1) JP6624694B2 (ja)
CN (1) CN107072158B (ja)
CA (1) CA2966344C (ja)
WO (1) WO2016081234A1 (ja)

Cited By (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US11211538B1 (en) 2020-12-23 2021-12-28 Joseph L. Pikulski Thermal management system for electrically-powered devices
US20220225588A1 (en) * 2019-05-13 2022-07-21 Mjnn Llc Grow tower alignment mechanism
US20220408659A1 (en) * 2021-06-25 2022-12-29 Brandon Massay Scalable and re-configurable system for indoor growing

Families Citing this family (23)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US10499575B2 (en) * 2014-05-22 2019-12-10 Aero Development Corp. Modular aeroponic growing column and system
US9968039B2 (en) 2014-08-21 2018-05-15 Loren R. Graber Hydroponic tower assembly
US10655095B2 (en) 2015-12-28 2020-05-19 Bryan Harold FARRISH Enhanced macroalgal photobioreactor, algae scrubber, and seaweed cultivator methods and apparatuses—water delivery structures
CA2980650A1 (en) * 2016-10-10 2018-04-10 University Of Wyoming Vertical hydroponic plant production apparatus
US20180199526A1 (en) * 2017-01-17 2018-07-19 Zong Guo Apparatus and Method for Hydroponic Plant Production
WO2018175794A1 (en) * 2017-03-22 2018-09-27 Eden Works, Inc (Dba Edenworks) Method and apparatus for handling, cleaning, and transplanting growing towers
US20190082617A1 (en) * 2017-09-18 2019-03-21 Stem Cultivation, Inc. Cultivation System and Methods
CN112020301B (zh) * 2018-02-07 2021-09-10 青川投资控股公司 立式水耕栽培系统及立式水耕栽培方法
JP6707245B2 (ja) * 2018-02-07 2020-06-10 グリーンリバーホールディングス株式会社 縦型水耕栽培システム及び縦型水耕栽培方法
US10701875B2 (en) * 2018-03-02 2020-07-07 Mjnn, Llc Multi-piece hydroponic tower with hinged tower face
US10694689B2 (en) * 2018-03-02 2020-06-30 Mjnn, Llc Multi-piece hydroponic tower
US10681875B2 (en) * 2018-04-02 2020-06-16 Mjnn, Llc Hydroponic tower compatible gutter assembly
CA3095906A1 (en) * 2018-04-05 2019-10-10 Emil V. BREZA Container for plant cultivation with sloping fertigation troughs
US10750675B2 (en) * 2018-06-20 2020-08-25 Mjnn, Llc Vertical hydroponic tower plant container handling system
US11951610B2 (en) * 2018-07-31 2024-04-09 Mjnn Llc Opening apparatus for use with a multi-piece, hinged, hydroponic tower
EP3846612A4 (en) * 2018-09-07 2022-10-05 Urban Geoponic LLC HYDROPONIC TOWER ASSEMBLIES AND METHODS
JP6753623B2 (ja) * 2018-11-19 2020-09-09 グリーンリバーホールディングス株式会社 縦型水耕栽培システム及び縦型水耕栽培方法
USD964787S1 (en) 2019-06-04 2022-09-27 Urban Geoponic Llc Hydroponic tower
US11659795B2 (en) 2019-07-12 2023-05-30 Rise Gardens Inc. Plant support for hydroponic growing system
RU2716981C1 (ru) * 2019-11-20 2020-03-17 Денис Владимирович Чаннов Вертикальная грядка
US11813833B2 (en) 2019-12-09 2023-11-14 Owens Corning Intellectual Capital, Llc Fiberglass insulation product
USD1001968S1 (en) * 2020-11-02 2023-10-17 Waterwix Pty Ltd Sub-irrigation channel
US20230092421A1 (en) * 2021-09-23 2023-03-23 Freight Farms, Inc. Vertical farming watering system and methods of making and use therefor

Citations (42)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3018586A (en) 1959-05-26 1962-01-30 Farley Barbara Lane Ornamental apparatus for soilless hydroponic cultivation
US4070793A (en) 1976-10-06 1978-01-31 Flowers, Inc. Plant propagating and shipping device and method
JPS56154961A (en) 1980-05-02 1981-11-30 Hitachi Ltd Production unit for popcorn
US4454684A (en) 1983-03-16 1984-06-19 Hare Louis R O Root augmentor for vertical horticulture
US4476651A (en) 1983-01-27 1984-10-16 Geoffrey Drury Apparatus and method for transporting growing plants
US4932158A (en) 1988-05-25 1990-06-12 Roberts David S Method and apparatus for hydroponic gardening
JPH0614665Y2 (ja) 1987-06-22 1994-04-20 株式会社資生堂 液体化粧料容器
US5363594A (en) 1991-11-07 1994-11-15 A.C.T. Inc. Vertical gardens
US5588253A (en) * 1992-05-29 1996-12-31 Smithers-Oasis Company Method and apparatus for displaying floral arrangements
CA2284389A1 (en) 1999-10-01 2001-04-01 Allan Black Modular planter system
US20010047617A1 (en) 2000-04-03 2001-12-06 Blossom Christopher Todd Portable hydroponic garden apparatus
US20030101645A1 (en) 2001-12-04 2003-06-05 Robert Cole Hydroponic growing enclosure and method for the fabrication of animal feed grass from seed
US20040020114A1 (en) * 2002-07-23 2004-02-05 Bki Holding Corporation Cellulose support for seed
US6840007B2 (en) 2002-08-02 2005-01-11 Michel Leduc Rotary plant growing apparatus
US20050055878A1 (en) 2003-03-10 2005-03-17 Gilles Dumont Rotary plant growing apparatus
WO2005025299A1 (en) 2003-09-12 2005-03-24 Ian Percival Harding Display stand for hydroponically grown produce
US6951076B2 (en) 2000-02-22 2005-10-04 Barry Winsbury System for hydroponically growing plants, apparatus and method therefor
US20060156624A1 (en) 2004-12-16 2006-07-20 Mario Roy Modular aeroponic/hydroponic container mountable to a surface
US20060236604A1 (en) * 2002-04-01 2006-10-26 Thi International, Llc Compositions, Methods, and Devices for Enhanced Seed Materials
US7188451B2 (en) * 2003-08-18 2007-03-13 Ted Marchildon Plant growing machine
EP2030503A1 (en) 2007-08-30 2009-03-04 Viherasema Oy Apparatus for hydroponic cultivation of plants
US20090293350A1 (en) 2008-05-27 2009-12-03 Fountainhead, Llc Raised bed planter with biomimetic exoskeleton
US20110016784A1 (en) 2009-07-24 2011-01-27 Taber Steve M Modular Wall Planters
US20110016782A1 (en) * 2009-07-22 2011-01-27 Scott Harder Method and apparatus for growing plants
US20120000128A1 (en) * 2009-03-11 2012-01-05 Patrick Rochefort Modular hydroponic growing unit
US8122642B1 (en) 2008-02-13 2012-02-28 EZ Care Growing Technologies, LLC. Horticultural growth medium
US8327582B2 (en) 2009-08-03 2012-12-11 University Of Wyoming Vertical hydroponic plant production apparatus
US8365466B1 (en) 2010-04-22 2013-02-05 Nathaniel Storey Hydroponic produce display apparatus
US20130219788A1 (en) * 2012-02-28 2013-08-29 Joseph P. VanLente Vertical concentrated vegetable and plant grower
US20140020292A1 (en) 2012-06-29 2014-01-23 Freight Farms Insulated Shipping Containers Modified for High-Yield Plant Production Capable in any Environment
US20140259904A1 (en) 2013-03-15 2014-09-18 William Charles Collard System and process for irrigating and monitoring the growth of plants
JP2014212701A (ja) 2013-04-22 2014-11-17 有限会社ベスコン 水耕栽培装置
US8966815B1 (en) 2014-03-20 2015-03-03 David Smiles Method for growing and distributing live food
US20150264868A1 (en) 2014-03-20 2015-09-24 David Smiles Method for growing and distributing live food
WO2015175415A1 (en) 2014-05-11 2015-11-19 University Of Wyoming Modular hydroponic rack system for crop cultivation and transport
US20150342127A1 (en) * 2014-05-27 2015-12-03 Roto-gro Inc. Growing Tray and Cap for Rotating Hydroponic Gardening
US9491915B2 (en) 2009-08-03 2016-11-15 University Of Wyoming Vertical hydroponic plant production apparatus
USD785497S1 (en) 2015-10-22 2017-05-02 University Of Wyoming Modular hydroponic tower
USD796378S1 (en) 2016-02-10 2017-09-05 University Of Wyoming Hydroponic tower
USD821915S1 (en) 2016-08-23 2018-07-03 University Of Wyoming Elongated hydroponic structure
USD826769S1 (en) 2016-08-23 2018-08-28 University Of Wyoming Hydroponic structure
USD832738S1 (en) 2016-09-19 2018-11-06 University Of Wyoming Extended hydroponic tower

Family Cites Families (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JPH0614665A (ja) * 1992-07-02 1994-01-25 Emushiki Suiko Kenkyusho:Kk 植物栽培ベッドおよび植物栽培装置
US9380751B2 (en) * 2009-08-03 2016-07-05 University Of Wyoming Vertical hydroponic plant production apparatus
KR20150042839A (ko) * 2012-09-27 2015-04-21 도요 고무 고교 가부시키가이샤 섬유 괴상체, 및 섬유 괴상체를 사용한 인공 토양
WO2014109252A1 (ja) * 2013-01-11 2014-07-17 東洋ゴム工業株式会社 人工土壌培地
US9591814B2 (en) * 2014-02-13 2017-03-14 Fred Collins Light-weight modular adjustable vertical hydroponic growing system and method
US20160066525A1 (en) * 2014-09-05 2016-03-10 Group Rate Deals, LLC d/b/a Earth Prime Inc. Hydroponic garden system
US20160120141A1 (en) * 2014-10-29 2016-05-05 Aero Development Corp Aeroponic Growing Column and System

Patent Citations (42)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3018586A (en) 1959-05-26 1962-01-30 Farley Barbara Lane Ornamental apparatus for soilless hydroponic cultivation
US4070793A (en) 1976-10-06 1978-01-31 Flowers, Inc. Plant propagating and shipping device and method
JPS56154961A (en) 1980-05-02 1981-11-30 Hitachi Ltd Production unit for popcorn
US4476651A (en) 1983-01-27 1984-10-16 Geoffrey Drury Apparatus and method for transporting growing plants
US4454684A (en) 1983-03-16 1984-06-19 Hare Louis R O Root augmentor for vertical horticulture
JPH0614665Y2 (ja) 1987-06-22 1994-04-20 株式会社資生堂 液体化粧料容器
US4932158A (en) 1988-05-25 1990-06-12 Roberts David S Method and apparatus for hydroponic gardening
US5363594A (en) 1991-11-07 1994-11-15 A.C.T. Inc. Vertical gardens
US5588253A (en) * 1992-05-29 1996-12-31 Smithers-Oasis Company Method and apparatus for displaying floral arrangements
CA2284389A1 (en) 1999-10-01 2001-04-01 Allan Black Modular planter system
US6951076B2 (en) 2000-02-22 2005-10-04 Barry Winsbury System for hydroponically growing plants, apparatus and method therefor
US20010047617A1 (en) 2000-04-03 2001-12-06 Blossom Christopher Todd Portable hydroponic garden apparatus
US20030101645A1 (en) 2001-12-04 2003-06-05 Robert Cole Hydroponic growing enclosure and method for the fabrication of animal feed grass from seed
US20060236604A1 (en) * 2002-04-01 2006-10-26 Thi International, Llc Compositions, Methods, and Devices for Enhanced Seed Materials
US20040020114A1 (en) * 2002-07-23 2004-02-05 Bki Holding Corporation Cellulose support for seed
US6840007B2 (en) 2002-08-02 2005-01-11 Michel Leduc Rotary plant growing apparatus
US20050055878A1 (en) 2003-03-10 2005-03-17 Gilles Dumont Rotary plant growing apparatus
US7188451B2 (en) * 2003-08-18 2007-03-13 Ted Marchildon Plant growing machine
WO2005025299A1 (en) 2003-09-12 2005-03-24 Ian Percival Harding Display stand for hydroponically grown produce
US20060156624A1 (en) 2004-12-16 2006-07-20 Mario Roy Modular aeroponic/hydroponic container mountable to a surface
EP2030503A1 (en) 2007-08-30 2009-03-04 Viherasema Oy Apparatus for hydroponic cultivation of plants
US8122642B1 (en) 2008-02-13 2012-02-28 EZ Care Growing Technologies, LLC. Horticultural growth medium
US20090293350A1 (en) 2008-05-27 2009-12-03 Fountainhead, Llc Raised bed planter with biomimetic exoskeleton
US20120000128A1 (en) * 2009-03-11 2012-01-05 Patrick Rochefort Modular hydroponic growing unit
US20110016782A1 (en) * 2009-07-22 2011-01-27 Scott Harder Method and apparatus for growing plants
US20110016784A1 (en) 2009-07-24 2011-01-27 Taber Steve M Modular Wall Planters
US9491915B2 (en) 2009-08-03 2016-11-15 University Of Wyoming Vertical hydroponic plant production apparatus
US8327582B2 (en) 2009-08-03 2012-12-11 University Of Wyoming Vertical hydroponic plant production apparatus
US8365466B1 (en) 2010-04-22 2013-02-05 Nathaniel Storey Hydroponic produce display apparatus
US20130219788A1 (en) * 2012-02-28 2013-08-29 Joseph P. VanLente Vertical concentrated vegetable and plant grower
US20140020292A1 (en) 2012-06-29 2014-01-23 Freight Farms Insulated Shipping Containers Modified for High-Yield Plant Production Capable in any Environment
US20140259904A1 (en) 2013-03-15 2014-09-18 William Charles Collard System and process for irrigating and monitoring the growth of plants
JP2014212701A (ja) 2013-04-22 2014-11-17 有限会社ベスコン 水耕栽培装置
US8966815B1 (en) 2014-03-20 2015-03-03 David Smiles Method for growing and distributing live food
US20150264868A1 (en) 2014-03-20 2015-09-24 David Smiles Method for growing and distributing live food
WO2015175415A1 (en) 2014-05-11 2015-11-19 University Of Wyoming Modular hydroponic rack system for crop cultivation and transport
US20150342127A1 (en) * 2014-05-27 2015-12-03 Roto-gro Inc. Growing Tray and Cap for Rotating Hydroponic Gardening
USD785497S1 (en) 2015-10-22 2017-05-02 University Of Wyoming Modular hydroponic tower
USD796378S1 (en) 2016-02-10 2017-09-05 University Of Wyoming Hydroponic tower
USD821915S1 (en) 2016-08-23 2018-07-03 University Of Wyoming Elongated hydroponic structure
USD826769S1 (en) 2016-08-23 2018-08-28 University Of Wyoming Hydroponic structure
USD832738S1 (en) 2016-09-19 2018-11-06 University Of Wyoming Extended hydroponic tower

Non-Patent Citations (24)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Title
"Assembling a Vertical Hydroponics System," Bright Agrotech, Upstart University, https://www.slideshare.net/BrightAgrotech/greenwall-assembly-instructions-v1, Jun. 3, 2014, 26 slides.
Bright Agrotech, "Green Wall Update (Frozen in Time)-Nov. 10, 2014," Bright Agrotech, https://youtu.be/kraa_d3ddRg, Nov. 11, 2014, 2:07 minutes, screen shot 1 page.
Bright Agrotech, "How Do Living Green Walls Work?," Bright Agrotech, https://youtu.be/LdBDtP1mcxU, Sep. 19, 2014, 2:49 minutes, screen shot 1 page.
Bright Agrotech, "Laramie Green Wall Update Snow Edition (Nov. 3, 2014)," Bright Agrotech, https://youtu.be/zvjTgSVX5s4, Nov. 3, 2014, 1:10 minutes, screen shot 1 page.
Bright Agrotech, "September Green Wall Update," Bright Agrotech, https://youtu.be/VmVhoBAd6KU, Sep. 30, 2014, 1:22 minutes, screen shot 1 page.
Bright Agrotech, "Green Wall Update (Frozen in Time)—Nov. 10, 2014," Bright Agrotech, https://youtu.be/kraa_d3ddRg, Nov. 11, 2014, 2:07 minutes, screen shot 1 page.
Downing, Lois, "Planning and Building Green Walls," https://blog.brightagrotech.com/planning-and-building-green-walls/, Aug. 20, 2013, 10 pages.
Farm Wall Buyer's Guide, 2017, 8 pages.
Horton, Robin, "Vertical Farming on Rise for Urban Food Supply", Urban Gardens, Jul. 9, 2010, 5 pages.
https://brightagrotech.com/farm-walls-grow-hyper-local-food-for-restaurants-all-year/, Nov. 3, 2015, screen shot, 1 page.
https://brightagrotech.com/vertical-farm-at-the-2015-worlds-fair/ Mar. 6, 2015, screen shot, 18 pages.
https://brightagrotech.com/vertical-gardening/, Jun. 20, 2014. screen shot, 5 pages.
International Search Report, PCT/US15/30170, dated Aug. 12, 2015.
International Search Report, PCT/US15/60085, dated Jan. 28, 2016.
Michael, Chris, "What is a Living Green Wall?," https://blog.brightagrotech.com/what-is-a-living-green-wall/, Aug. 28, 2014, 9 pages.
Michael, Chris, "ZipGrow Living Green Walls at ASLA 2014," https://blog.brightagrotech.com/zipgrow-living-green-walls-asla-2014/, Nov. 20, 2014, 9 pages.
Peters, Adele, "These Vertical Farms Turn Unused City Wall Space Into Gardens That Grow Your Lunch," Fast Company, https://www.fastcompany.com/3052538/these-vertical-farms-turn-unused-city-wall-space-into-gardens-that-grow-your-lunch, Oct. 23, 2015, 6 pages.
Smith, Damon, "Assembling a ZipGrow Farm Wall," Upstart University, https://www.slideshare.net/BrightAgrotech/assembling-a-zipgrow-farm-wall, Sep. 21, 2015, 40 slides.
Storey, Amy, "The Evolution of the ZipGrow Farm Wall Design," https://blog.brightagrotech.com/the-evolution-of-the-zipgrow-farm-wall-design/, Jul. 23, 2015, 10 pages.
Storey, Amy, "The Many Benefits of Living Walls," https://blog.brightagrotech.com/the-many-benetits-of-living-walls/ , Jun. 12, 2015, 13 pages.
Storey, Amy, "What Happens When Restaurants Become Urban Farms?," https://blog.brightagrotech.com/what-happens-when-restaurants-become-urban-farms/, Sep. 30, 2015, 6 pages.
Storey, Nate, "How Do Green Walls Work?," Bright Agrotech, https://youtu.be/y_DXn4YdkBQ, Aug. 15, 2013, 5:22 minutes, screen shot 1 page.
Storey, Nate, "World's First Aquaponic Living Green Wall," Bright Agrotech, https://youtu.be/zO_GeRDU2x0, Aug. 13, 2013, 5:40 minutes, screen shot 1 page.
Zipgrow Farm Wall Manual, 2017, 14 pages.

Cited By (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20220225588A1 (en) * 2019-05-13 2022-07-21 Mjnn Llc Grow tower alignment mechanism
US11211538B1 (en) 2020-12-23 2021-12-28 Joseph L. Pikulski Thermal management system for electrically-powered devices
US20220408659A1 (en) * 2021-06-25 2022-12-29 Brandon Massay Scalable and re-configurable system for indoor growing
US11895959B2 (en) * 2021-06-25 2024-02-13 Brandon Massay Scalable and re-configurable system for indoor growing

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
CA2966344A1 (en) 2016-05-26
JP6624694B2 (ja) 2019-12-25
US20210161088A1 (en) 2021-06-03
EP3220735A1 (en) 2017-09-27
EP3220735A4 (en) 2018-07-11
CN107072158A (zh) 2017-08-18
JP2017538405A (ja) 2017-12-28
CA2966344C (en) 2023-05-09
CN107072158B (zh) 2020-08-28
EP3220735B1 (en) 2020-07-22
WO2016081234A1 (en) 2016-05-26
US20170332568A1 (en) 2017-11-23

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US20210161088A1 (en) Vertical hydroponic tower array fixture system
US11388869B2 (en) Modular hydroponic rack system for crop cultivation and transport
US11510375B2 (en) Vertical hydroponic plant production apparatus
US20230337592A1 (en) Vertical hydroponic plant production apparatus
US11026378B2 (en) Vertical hydroponic plant production apparatus
US11277976B2 (en) Greenwall cladding
US20120000128A1 (en) Modular hydroponic growing unit
AU2023226769A1 (en) Vertical hydroponic plant production apparatus
KR20130049899A (ko) 화단
KR101685568B1 (ko) 스크린컵이 구성된 수경재배용 베드 세트
CA2971985A1 (en) Vertical hydroponic plant production apparatus
JP2016116467A (ja) 緑化壁ユニット、及びその設置方法

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
STPP Information on status: patent application and granting procedure in general

Free format text: DOCKETED NEW CASE - READY FOR EXAMINATION

AS Assignment

Owner name: UNIVERSITY OF WYOMING, WYOMING

Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:STOREY, NATHANIEL R.;REEL/FRAME:044085/0906

Effective date: 20151109

STPP Information on status: patent application and granting procedure in general

Free format text: NON FINAL ACTION MAILED

STPP Information on status: patent application and granting procedure in general

Free format text: RESPONSE TO NON-FINAL OFFICE ACTION ENTERED AND FORWARDED TO EXAMINER

STPP Information on status: patent application and granting procedure in general

Free format text: FINAL REJECTION MAILED

STPP Information on status: patent application and granting procedure in general

Free format text: RESPONSE AFTER FINAL ACTION FORWARDED TO EXAMINER

STPP Information on status: patent application and granting procedure in general

Free format text: DOCKETED NEW CASE - READY FOR EXAMINATION

STPP Information on status: patent application and granting procedure in general

Free format text: NON FINAL ACTION MAILED

STPP Information on status: patent application and granting procedure in general

Free format text: RESPONSE TO NON-FINAL OFFICE ACTION ENTERED AND FORWARDED TO EXAMINER

STPP Information on status: patent application and granting procedure in general

Free format text: NOTICE OF ALLOWANCE MAILED -- APPLICATION RECEIVED IN OFFICE OF PUBLICATIONS

STPP Information on status: patent application and granting procedure in general

Free format text: PUBLICATIONS -- ISSUE FEE PAYMENT VERIFIED

STCF Information on status: patent grant

Free format text: PATENTED CASE

MAFP Maintenance fee payment

Free format text: PAYMENT OF MAINTENANCE FEE, 4TH YR, SMALL ENTITY (ORIGINAL EVENT CODE: M2551); ENTITY STATUS OF PATENT OWNER: SMALL ENTITY

Year of fee payment: 4